State Senator Mumper

To everything, there is a season - these famous words can apply to many aspects of our lives, but they are perhaps most appropriate at this time of year.  As August is quickly passing by and ushering in the changes of fall, a number of "seasons" are beginning for Ohioans.  Fall is the time to enjoy the colorful foliage, to harvest our gardens, to root for our favorite football teams and, of course, to get back into the swing of another school year.

As always, it is an exciting and maybe nerve-wracking time for Ohio students and parents.  Accordingly, now is a great opportunity to build upon this excitement by reviewing the recent developments and accomplishments in Ohio schools and to ease back-to-school nerves by reminding ourselves of ways we can ensure a safe and enjoyable school year.

The Ohio General Assembly, as well as state leaders and agencies, continue to work on policies and programs that will move Ohio's education system forward.  For example, through the Ohio Schools Facilities Commission, the current state budget is providing a number of schools with funds for renovations and the purchase of modern, up-to-date teaching equipment, among other important supplies and materials.

Moreover, pending legislation, such as Senate Bill 57, which would create a Special Education Scholarship Pilot Program, aims to give students and their families more educational flexibility and freedom to choose which programs best fit them.  Also, Ohio is working to help students become vital parts of the state's and the nation's workforce through the development of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) schools, which focus curricula on these critical fields in today's economy.

As a result the cooperation and diligence of legislators, education professionals and Ohio communities, Ohio schools have enjoyed much success.  For example, a recent report in the publication Education Week, ranked Ohio's education system 7^th in the nation.  Yet, while we can be proud of our schools' accomplishments, we must also be vigilant to maintain Ohio students' safety to ensure further achievements.

For instance, approximately 80 percent of students ride the bus to and from school.  Although these buses are statistically safer than cars, accidents and injuries can still occur as students are entering and exiting the vehicles and crossing the street either to get to their school buildings or to get to their homes.  However, if everyone remembers a few commonsense bus-safety tips, we can avoid school bus related accidents this year.

First of all, drivers should remember laws regarding school buses:  On two-lane roads, all traffic must stop for buses, and on multi-lane roads, cars travelling in the same direction as buses must stop.  And, students should remember the following hints when they are at the school bus stop:  Try to get to the bus stop at least five minutes early, so you do not need to rush.  Remain five giant steps away from the bus, as you are waiting at the bus stop and crossing the street.  Finally, always stay in the direct eyesight of your bus driver and be sure to follow all of the driver's directions.

As the season is changing and classes all over the state are just beginning, Ohioans are likely clamoring to prepare themselves for the upcoming school year.  Of course purchasing pens, pencils, notebooks and the latest fashions is important; however, I hope that this year as part of your school preparations, you reflect on the achievements of Ohio schools and on how you can play a role in creating a safe and enriching educational environment in your community.  Best wishes to all students, parents and education professionals!